Crazy Talk: A Not-So-Stuffy Dictionary of Theological Terms

by Karl N. Jacobson

So much theology is confusing and intimidating. The concepts themselves are given weighty-sounding names, such as incarnation and justification, and the explanations of the concepts sometimes can be more confusing than the names.

Captivating, entertaining, and highly informative, Crazy Talk helps readers navigate their way through that complexity and offers a vocabulary that dares - and equips! - its readers to embrace their own faith in a new, well-informed way.

The purpose of Crazy Talk, says author Rolf Jacobson, is to render the heart of our Christian theology in a form that is accessible and appealing to everyone. The format of the book is similar to that of a dictionary of theological terms- but with a twist of humor! Each entry includes the name of the theological term, an ironic definition of the term, and a short humorous essay offering a fuller explanation of the term. In making the term understandable, Jacobson concentrates on the big theological issue that is at stake in the term - and why it matters. Includes over 50 black and white illustrations.

Genres: Religion, Reference, Humor, Nonfiction, Church, Theology, Christian

183 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2008

About the author

Karl N. Jacobson is assistant professor of religion at Augsburg College in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and is an ordained pastor. He collaborated with Rolf Jacobson on Crazy Talk: A Not-So-Stuffy Dictionary of Theological Terms.

Reviews

[Suhail · Rating 3 out of 5]

Years ago when starting my Catholic theology studies, I picked this up without realising it was a Lutheran book. After coming to that realisation, I put it on my 'to read' pile where it has languished many years until the Corona virus forced a lockdown on the library and I had to dig into that pile.

This is the funniest introduction to Lutheranism I have ever come across.

It also made it pretty easy to see what our similarities and differences are. I can recommend this to anyone who wants to know more of Lutheran Theology. There is also a new edition out so you might want to check that one out instead.

[Kyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite books is Frederick Buechner's "Wishful Thinking". As a "Seeker's ABC", it's a witty encyclopedia that names and defines the sacred cows and insider terms of modern Christianity. It does so with wit, insight, and humility. You probably shouldn't attend a church service without in your pocket.

In that tradition, we have the Lutheran version! This compendium of theological terms has wit aplomb and is a remarkably helpful little volume for getting to the big issues of Christian theology. And that's the truth. Throughout, it keeps God's love for the world completed in Jesus Christ in the forefront. Beyond that it helps the newcomers to theology understand some of the bigger issues that have dogged the church for nearly 2000 years. And it does so while keeping one's tongue firmly planted in one's cheek. For the seasoned, it reminds us that we probably take this stuff too seriously. Consider this snippet from the entry for Disciple, aka "A person who follows Jesus, who is, of course, pursing us.":

Child: Mom, I want to go to the party--my best friend is going.
Mom: If your best friend were jumping off a bridge, would you follow?
Child: Mom, you want me to follow Jesus, right? And Jesus said, "Take up your cross and follow me," but Jesus got himself crucified, so do you really want me to follow Jesus?"
Mom: You have a point. You can go to the party?
Child: Really?
Mom: No. And I still want you to follow Jesus, but don't get yourself crucified before I have grandkids.

Classic.

You'll find more throughout this (I hope it will someday be) classic on topics ranging from heresy to justification, grace to protestant, and ascension to sanctification. As a word of warning, the careful reader will notice a distinct Lutheran bent. But a little Lutheranism is good for you. Or at least it's not bad for you. Bonhoeffer was Lutheran. Everyone loves Bonhoeffer.

[Michael Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book... you might not agree with everything they say but it is a good primer for understanding Theological words

The definition for "Mission" was messed up on the kindle version

[Joel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great resource for the open minded Lutheran. I would say liberally educated, but too many people can not separate the concept from the trend.

[Joel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Both books in the Crazy Talk series from Augsberg Press are very helpful in cutting through the sometimes stuffy subject.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book humorous and informative. Certainly it could have oodles more listings, but I think the ones chosen are just fine.